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Quality Adjustment, Hedonic Regressions and the Extension Problem

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  • DIEWERT, W. Erwin
  • SHIMIZU, Chihiro

Abstract

High technology products are characterized by the rapid introduction of new models and the corresponding disappearance of older models. The paper addresses the quality adjustment problem associated with the construction of price indexes for these products. A main method for dealing with this problem is the use of hedonic regression models. Hedonic regressions use either product characteristics as explanatory variables (Time Dummy Characteristics regressions) or the product itself as the ultimate characteristic (Time Product Dummy regressions). The paper considers weighted and unweighted Time Product Dummy regressions. The indexes which were generated by the hedonic regressions are compared to traditional index numbers that did not make any special adjustments for quality change. The Expanding Window variant of a Weighted Time Product Dummy regression was used to address the chain drift problem and the problems associated with extending a series that cannot be revised. Finally, the estimation of systems of inverse demand functions was also used to generate various price indexes. Seventeen alternative approaches were implemented using Japanese price and quantity data on laptop sales in Japan for the 24 months over the years 2020-2021.

Suggested Citation

  • DIEWERT, W. Erwin & SHIMIZU, Chihiro, 2026. "Quality Adjustment, Hedonic Regressions and the Extension Problem," RCESR Discussion Paper Series DP26-7, Research Center for Economic and Social Risks, Institute of Economic Research, Hitotsubashi University.
    • Handle: RePEc:hit:rcesrs:dp26-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ivancic, Lorraine & Erwin Diewert, W. & Fox, Kevin J., 2011. "Scanner data, time aggregation and the construction of price indexes," Journal of Econometrics, Elsevier, vol. 161(1), pages 24-35, March.
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C32 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Time-Series Models; Dynamic Quantile Regressions; Dynamic Treatment Effect Models; Diffusion Processes; State Space Models
    • C43 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: Special Topics - - - Index Numbers and Aggregation
    • D20 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - General
    • D57 - Microeconomics - - General Equilibrium and Disequilibrium - - - Input-Output Tables and Analysis
    • E31 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Price Level; Inflation; Deflation

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